Fears over future of Merthyr’s Redhouse

Artists in Merthyr Tydfil have raised concerns about the future of the iconic Redhouse arts centre in the town.

In an open letter, they have accused managers of the arts centre of running it into the groun.

They claim the former town hall, which was refurbished at a cost of £6 million, could close as an arts venue.

“What we are now left with is an arts centre without a dedicated box office system, no technician, no arts officer, no dedicated marketing officer, no events programmer – and soon, we fear, we will have an arts centre that is devoid of art.”

“Sadly, we believe that on its current path, Redhouse’s doors will be closed – and the only meaning it will have for anyone will be in the past tense.”

They also accuse the charitable trust, which runs the venue, Redhouse Cymru, of “a lack of scrutiny, transparency and openness.”

But Redhouse interim chief executive Sally Church said that Merthyr Tydfil Leisure Trust has no plans to close the Redhouse. “Indeed, we are taking all possible steps to safeguard its financial stability and are having positive discussions with new partners to secure our future as an arts and leisure venue.

She added, “what we are doing is seeking to develop a new and refreshedprogramme of activity.

Church said the trust was in confidential discussions with a a major arts organisation to deliver “a high quality and large programme of participatory community arts.”